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Your Sleeping Habits and Alzheimer’s Disease – Is There a Link?

Think about how refreshed you feel after a good night’s sleep. Getting the right amount of rest helps replenish your energy, giving your body time to recover from any of the day’s stresses. Additionally, a full night of sleep can improve your physical health, as you’re providing your immune system with the time it needs to regain its strength, and to fight off illnesses like the common cold or flu.

Recently, research has revealed that our sleeping habits can do more than just improve physical health. The amount of sleep you get – or don’t get – may be directly linked to your risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease.

What Causes Alzheimer’s Disease?

There are a lot of theories surrounding what causes Alzheimer’s disease, and researchers continue to look for more answers every day. Both your lifestyle and your environment can play a role in increasing your chances for the condition, and genetics are involved, too.

Most of the research surrounding Alzheimer’s disease causes are centered around the buildup of beta amyloid protein in the brain. These protein clusters are also known as plaques that build up between nerve cells, clumping together to interfere with cell-to-cell communication. Although most people do develop these plaques as they age, an individual with Alzheimer’s disease will have far more than someone without the condition.

The Connection Between Sleep and Alzheimer’s Disease

Contrary to some beliefs, the need for a good night’s sleep does not decrease in your later years. While adults may not need as much sleep as a newborn baby or even a teenager, the National Sleep Foundation recommends that adults get seven to nine hours of sleep every night, the ideal amount needed to restore your energy levels, improve your health, and enhance your quality of life.

The problem lies in the fact that throughout the hustle and bustle of your adult years, it often feels like there simply isn’t enough time in the day to get everything done. It’s common to stay up later than you should, trying to get one last task completed before heading to bed. Additionally, seniors often experience changes in sleep patterns, having trouble falling and staying asleep throughout the entire night. Or, changes in your circadian rhythm may cause you to feel sleepy earlier in the day or make you wake up long before the sun rises in the morning.

Whatever the reason, if you aren’t sleeping well, you’re putting your health at risk. Plus, there have been several recent studies examining the link between sleep and Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers from Washington University, for instance, found that even short-term disruptions in sleep can lead to higher levels of the beta amyloid protein. During periods of deep sleep the brain cells release fewer of these proteins.

A separate study published in the journal Neurology revealed similar findings. This study gathered 101 healthy adults with an average age of 63, all with known risks like a family history of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Using a standard scale, researchers measured the participants’ quality of sleep, how much they slept, and if they experienced daytime drowsiness or napped regularly. This study found that beta amyloids rose with poor sleep, and those who experienced sleep issues were also more likely to show evidence of brain cell damage and inflammation. This aligns with the researchers’ idea that poor sleep may contribute to a higher level of Alzheimer’s-related proteins in the brain.

It’s Not Too Late to Improve Your Sleeping Habits for Better Brain Health

Everyone should strive for a good night’s sleep, every night, no matter your age. One poor night of sleep may not increase your risk for Alzheimer’s disease, but if you’re experiencing chronic sleep problems you should talk to your doctor sooner rather than later. These types of chronic problems are not simply a normal part of the aging process, they need to be addressed to ensure you continue to feel your best.

There are things you can do to ensure you’re enjoying the best sleep you possibly can. For instance, establish a relaxing nightly routine by first creating a calm environment and settling down with a cup of hot (decaffeinated!) tea, taking a warm bath, or reading a good book. Eliminate napping throughout the day and finish any daily workouts at least three hours before you plan on heading to bed. If you find you can’t fall asleep the moment your head hits the pillow, don’t stress. Instead, allow yourself 15 minutes to unwind and drift off, and if you’re still restless, find a soothing activity to do until you grow tired.

Experience Passion for Life at Silver Maples Retirement Neighborhood

While our residents appreciate the variety of opportunities that are offered to stay engaged with our neighborhood as well as the greater Chelsea community, they also enjoy their down time. Residents value the fact that they choose when to get involved and when to take a low-key approach, and there’s always plenty of time for rest and relaxation!

You’ll feel the difference the moment you walk through our front door and experience our unique senior living community for yourself. Find the enriching lifestyle you’re seeking, while enjoying countless services and amenities and a variety of comfortable living options designed to meet your individual tastes and needs. Learn more about our beautiful retirement neighborhood in Chelsea, Michigan by reading personal insights and testimonials shared by residents, their families, community members, and our staff. Or, to schedule your personal tour, please contact us today.

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